What Is Sour Diesel?

One of the most popular cannabis strains in the world is Sour Diesel, a pungent sativa-dominant variety known for its distinct gasoline-like aroma. Though the details of the strain's origins are unknown, Sour Diesel emerged in the early 1990s on the east coast of the United States and is thought to descend from a phenotype of either Diesel or Chemdawg. The undeniably strong genetics of Sour Diesel have lent themselves to the creation of new strains such as NYC Diesel, Sour Jack, and Sour Tsunami.

Sometimes known simply as Sour D, the Sour Diesel cannabis strain is renowned for its earthy aroma of sour oranges, tangy lemons, and diesel fuel. The smoke is flavorful, though not everyone enjoys the skunky, ammonia-like taste, and consumers should be aware of its lingering smell. The medium-sized flowers are also notorious for having a high THC content, consistently testing at 20-25% THC levels, with some samples testing at 30% or more.

This strain delivers fast-acting and stimulating cerebral effects, including uplifted spirits, heightened creativity, and an energized mind. The sense of euphoria that Sour Diesel instills is often effective for relieving mild symptoms of stress and anxiety. However, high doses of Sour Diesel can sometimes induce a “spacey” or light-headed feeling that can make it difficult to concentrate or even lead to paranoia.

The stimulating mental effects are what Sour Diesel is best known for as the physical effects are less intense. Sour Diesel doesn't typically induce “couch-lock” or intense physical sedation, but it is often used to manage pain, relieve nausea, increase appetite, and relax muscle tension.

If you plan on growing your own Sour Diesel plants (indoor or outdoor) prepare for tall, thin plants that can reach heights of more than 4 feet. This strain does well in Mediterranean climates that are semi-humid and consistently between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The dense, yellow-green flowers are usually covered in red hairs (pistils) and we know the buds are rich in the terpenes alpha-Pinene, humulene, and caryophyllene. You can expect to collect between 1 and 2 ounces of flowers off of each square foot of the plant.